NBA Draft 2021: Stock watch after month of conference games

SO Franz Wagner – Michigan Wolverines – 6’9, 220 lbs

Stock: Up

After watching Wagner live last season, I came away impressed with his movement skills and feel for the game. Despite averaging under 12 points per game, I saw enough upside to put him No. 25 in my preseason board.

Wagner got off to a rough start offensively, shooting 30% from three in non-conference. But since Christmas, Wagner has been on a tear. He’s Michigan’s third option, but when he picks his spots he’s been productive. His shooting splits have improved and he’s shown the versatility to hit off the move and off the dribble shots. He’s not an overly explosive vertical athlete but has good touch and length to finish around the rim. He’s shown improvement as a passer as well. Wagner averaging 3.1 assists per game, after only averaging 1.0 apg last season.

It’s the defensive end where Wagner has been extremely valuable. He’s averaging 3.3 stocks (steals+blocks) per game in conference. Against Northwestern, Wagner had one of the better all-around games from a prospect I’ve seen, going for 14 points, ten rebounds, five assists, five blocks, two steals.

He’s blocked more shots this season (20) than he has turnovers (17). Wagner uses his length well to alter shots, but he has unteachable timing and instincts. He needs to add weight but still does a good job of walling off opponents. He leads the Big Ten and is top ten nationally with a +6.4 defensive box plus/minus.

Given his physical profile, it’s obvious Wagner can be a good NBA player. Michigan is on pause for two weeks, but when they return, he can be a key part of a team that has the ability to make a deep run in the tournament, which should only continue to increase his stock.